How to Improve Your Digestion Holistically
Digestive issues are a common concern for many people these days. Poor digestion can cause discomfort, bloating, and other symptoms that can impact your overall wellbeing. Here are some holistic strategies you can use to improve your digestion naturally.
Eat a balanced diet
A balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods can support optimal digestion. Focus on consuming a mix of lean protein, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Eating fruits on their own and in the morning before heavier foods can help digestion as well as eating cooked warm vegetables since they're way easier to digest. Avoid processed and refined foods, which can be difficult for your body to digest.
Stay hydrated
Water is essential for proper digestion, as it helps to move food through your digestive tract. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day, and consider sipping on warm liquids like herbal tea (I love chamomille, ginger, hibiscus and lemon balm), warm lemon water and water with apple cider vinegar to further support digestion.
Incorporate prebiotics
Prebiotics are a type of fiber that feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut, promoting a healthy gut microbiome. Some examples of prebiotic-rich foods include garlic, jicama, dandelion greens, onions, leeks, asparagus, bananas, and oats.
Incorporate probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in your gut and can support healthy digestion. Incorporate probiotic-rich foods like coconut yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, pickles into your diet, or consider taking a probiotic supplement to support a healthy gut microbiome. I love Seed!
Practice mindful eating
Mindful eating involves being present and aware of the food you are eating, how it tastes, and how it makes you feel. Use all your senses while eating! Sit at a table and enjoy food with friends, family or solo. This practice can help improve digestion by promoting relaxation and reducing stress, which can interfere with digestion.
Consider natural remedies
Certain herbs and supplements can support digestive health. Ginger and peppermint are both known for their ability to soothe upset stomachs, while digestive enzymes can help your body break down food more efficiently. Natural bitters can also help stimulate digestive juices like stomach acid and make digestion easier.
Reduce stress
Stress can interfere with digestion, so it's essential to prioritize stress management techniques like yoga, meditation, deep breathing, or other relaxation techniques. I like the 4-7-8 breathing method or box breathing before meals to calm your nervous system. Regular exercise can also help reduce stress levels and support healthy digestion.
In conclusion, improving your digestion holistically involves adopting a balanced diet, staying hydrated, incorporating prebiotics and probiotics, practicing mindful eating, considering natural remedies, and reducing stress. By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you can support optimal digestion and promote overall wellbeing!
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